The 33rd annual Florida Winefest and Auction‘s event was most successful. Funds from this event will benefit disadvantaged youth in Manatee and Sarasota counties through our Caring for Children’s Charities organization. Attendees enjoyed a caviar and champagne reception, a brunch with amazing wines, and the opportunity to bid on unique items at a live auction, all while supporting a great cause. Winefest is committed to continuing to help local children and announced a special new youth charity initiative entitled the Creative Empowerment Program. This exclusive new collaboration provides unique free educational experiences in the media and entertainment industries for area young people lacking access and resources. This unique local initiative will provide aspiring artists, graphic designers, and filmmakers the opportunity to learn directly from industry experts and recognized talent. The program series will be available, through the Florida Winefest & Auction Charities, to aid young students in achieving legitimate creative experience. Students will be able to attend master classes, and participate in commercial programs, to quickly develop marketable skills in filming, editing, graphics, music,
visual effect, and post production. This project is a continuation of the Semkhor Studio Lab that has allowed student content creators, to learn directly and personally from famous names such as Beau Brides, Kevin Smith, Forest Whitaker, American Zoetrope colleagues, plus Ethan Hawke, and the noted director Werner Herzog.